MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
But there was a certain man named Ananias who, with his wife, Sapphira, sold some property. He brought part of the money to the apostles, claiming it was the full amount.
With his wife’s consent, he kept the rest.
Acts 5:1-2 (NLT)
SINCERITY
A 12-year-old boy was waiting for his first orthodontist appointment and was a bit nervous. Apparently he wanted to impress the dentist. On the patient questionnaire, in the space marked “Hobbies,” he had written, “Swimming and flossing.” That’s a humorous example of how we’re all prone to hypocrisy. But spiritual hypocrisy is not humorous; it’s a dangerous and deadly sin. (Reader’s Digest)
The first word “but,” in Acts 5:1, presents a clear and dramatic contrast between the positive example of Barnabas in Acts 4 and the negative example of Ananias. Barnabas sold a field and gave all the proceeds to God. Ananias sold a field and pretended to give all the proceeds to God. The name Barnabas means “Son of Encouragement.” The name Anania means “Jehovah is Gracious.” Barnabas lived up to his name, while Ananias did not live up to his name and died as a result! Barnabas is an example of sincere giving and Ananias and Sapphira an example of hypocritical religion. Ananias wanted to look like Barnabas but he didn’t want to live like Barnabas.
Reflection
Mike shared the principle: If my church experience is mostly about how I look to others, I’ve missed the point. What areas of your spiritual walk are you tempted to present yourself better to others than you actually are?
Praise
God already knows the real you. God loves the real you. Thank God for His love. Ask God for truth and sincerity in your worship.
